London, Aug 26 (V7N)- More than 20 actors associated with Marvel films and television series have joined an international campaign calling for the release of Palestinian political leader Marwan Barghouti, who has been imprisoned by Israel.
The campaign, titled “Free Marwan Now,” was launched with the support of Barghouti's family and more than 200 figures from the worlds of film, music and literature, according to a report by Turkey's state-run Anadolu Agency.
In a statement shared on Instagram, campaign participants expressed concern over Barghouti's prolonged imprisonment, alleged mistreatment and restrictions on his legal rights. They called on the United Nations and governments around the world to take steps toward securing his release.
Among the prominent signatories are Marvel Cinematic Universe actors Ian McKellen, Mark Ruffalo, Benedict Cumberbatch, Don Cheadle, Cate Blanchett, Tilda Swinton and Hugo Weaving.
Marwan Barghouti, a senior figure in the Palestinian Fatah movement and a prominent figure during the First Intifada, was arrested by Israel in 2002. He was later convicted of murder-related charges connected to an attack in which five people were killed during the Second Intifada.
Barghouti was sentenced to five life terms along with an additional 40 years in prison.
In February 2024, then-Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir ordered Barghouti to be placed in solitary confinement at Ramon Prison. The decision reportedly followed intelligence assessments suggesting that Barghouti could be involved in planning a prison uprising.
The campaign, however, claims that Barghouti has faced prolonged solitary confinement and mistreatment in prison, raising concerns over his safety and welfare.
The renewed campaign has brought international attention to Barghouti's imprisonment, with prominent personalities from the entertainment and cultural sectors urging international institutions and governments to intervene.
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